After a thirty (30) second glance lots of resumes get thrown into the wastebasket. One of the reasons this happens is because the resume writer has failed to use the appropriate resume format.

Each individual has different work experiences and objectives. You may have gaps in your work history. You may be changing careers or have had jobs progressively in the same field.

You need to choose a format that is to your advantage and shows you as the best candidate for the job.

Here are the two (2) main resume formats used. Decide which is best for you.

1. The Chronological Resume Format:

• Objective
• Summary
• Experience
• Education
• References

The chronological resume format is the most popular format used by persons, especially those who write their own resume. However, it’s not for everyone.

This resume format is for you if;

• you have constantly moved to better and better jobs;
• all your jobs have been in the same field (more or less);
• you have no significant periods of unemployment.

From the information above, should your resume format be a chronological one? If your answer is yes then you’re good to go. If however your answer is no then the following format is for you.

2. The Functional Resume Format:

• Objective
• Accomplishments
• Capabilities
• Employment History
• Education
• References

The functional resume format is designed to emphasize your accomplishments and skills needed to do the job you’re applying for. This takes the spotlight of your work history, especially if there are gaps in you work history.

This resume format is for you if;

• you’re changing careers;
• you’re re-entering the job market;
• you’re skills and accomplishments are stronger than your work experience;
• you have little work experience.

A functional resume format works especially well if you’re a recent graduate. Here’s a variation of this resume format.

• Objective
• Skills
• Education
• Work Experience
• Activities and Honors
• References

Choosing the right resume format for you is a critical step in making a winning resume. And a resume is what get you a job interview, which in turn gets you the job. So be vigilant and know which resume format suits you best and use it.